World Alzheimer’s Day takes place on 21 September, giving us an opportunity to talk more openly about dementia, challenge some of the assumptions that still surround it and show greater understanding towards people living with dementia and their families.
It forms part of World Alzheimer’s Month, which takes place throughout September and encourages conversations around dementia awareness, diagnosis and the experiences of those affected.
For care homes such as Tudor Manor, it is also an important reminder that dementia care should always be about the person, not simply their diagnosis.
Why Challenging Dementia Stigma Still Matters
There is still a significant amount of dementia stigma.
People living with dementia can often be viewed as no longer capable of making decisions, enjoying meaningful activities or maintaining their independence. There are several common misconceptions, including assumptions that people with dementia cannot live independently or make their own choices. Understanding dementia and challenging dementia stigma can help change the way we speak about and support people following a dementia diagnosis.
A diagnosis does not take away someone’s personality, interests, relationships or individuality. Every person experiences dementia differently, which is why listening, patience and understanding remain so important.
Changing How We Think About Dementia Care Homes
Some of the stigma around dementia can extend to elderly care and the idea of moving into a dementia care home.
A care home should not mean losing independence or having decisions made for you. Good dementia care should support people to continue making choices, following familiar routines and enjoying the things that matter to them wherever possible.
At Tudor Manor, the approach to dementia care is centred around each individual. Personalised care plans, meaningful activities and support with everyday life are intended to promote wellbeing and independence, while providing a safe and supportive environment.
This reflects our wider approach to elderly care, which focuses on maintaining independence rather than simply doing things for people.
Seeing The Person First Before the Condition
Person-centred dementia care starts with getting to know the individual. Dementia is a complex condition that affects each person differently, so care should reflect their needs, preferences, routines and life experiences.
Someone’s favourite music, hobbies, routines, food preferences and the way they like to spend their day still matter.
Familiar surroundings matter too – at Tudor Manor Care home we encourage dementia residents to personalise bedrooms with their own belongings and treasured possessions, helping to create a space that feels familiar and personal.
These aspects are particularly important when challenging dementia stigma. Someone may need more support than they once did, but that does not mean their preferences, abilities and opinions should be overlooked.
Talking More Openly This World Alzheimer’s Day
World Alzheimer’s Day gives all of us a reason to learn a little more and question some of the assumptions we may have about dementia.
That might mean finding out more about the condition, checking in with a family affected by dementia or simply thinking differently about what life following a dementia diagnosis can look like.
Greater dementia awareness can also help make conversations about elderly care feel less frightening. Moving into a care home can represent a major change, but with the right support it can provide companionship, reassurance and opportunities to remain involved in daily life.
Most importantly, World Alzheimer’s Day reminds us to see the individual first.
For families who are starting to explore additional support, you can find out more about person-centred dementia care services at Tudor Manor or get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss your personal requirements – we’ll be happy to assist. Call us on 01384 379165 today.